Paniyaram: Spicy Indian Appetizer

Paniyaram can be made either sweet or salty easy appetizers. You need a special pan called paniyarakkal to make paniyaram. These are nonstick pans with holes or cups in them where you pour the batter so that it comes out round when it is cooked. The batter is turned only once so that both sides are nice and golden. Serve paniyaram as a teatime healthy food snack or as a delicious appetizer. This also goes well with tomato chutney and can be enjoyed as a scrumptious breakfast or light dinner.

Ingredients
2 cups uncooked rice
3/4 cup of Urud Dal (a type of Indian bean)
1 teaspoon salt or according to taste.
Oil for frying.
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon of Channa dal (a type of Indian bean)
1 teaspoon curry leaves
2-3 medium sized green chilies
1 medium onion, finely chopped

Preparation Instruction for Appetizer Rrecipes
1. In a bowl soak rice and Urad dal overnight or for at least 6-7 hours.

2. After soaking, grind it to form a smooth batter. Add salt and allow it to ferment in a damp dark place for about 8-10 hours.

3. When ready, heat some oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and fry until golden brown. Add Channa dal, curry leaves, green chilies, and onions. Cook and stir until golden brown. Add seasoning mix to batter and mix well.

4. To make Paniyaram, pour batter into well-oiled paniyarakkal (a special type of Indian cooker) cups. Close lid and allow it to cook on medium flame, turning to cook both sides. Serve hot with coconut, tomato chutney, or sauce.